No, the NES version, while loosely based off the old computer versions, is a very different game. This is one instance where a "port" of a WRPG ended up very different from the original. (I haven't played the NES game, but it is one game that is currently on my list of games I want to play.)

Ultima 4 and 5 are other games where this happened. (Stay away from Ultima 5 NES; if I were making a list of worst games ever (the sort of list that would have games like ET and Big Rigs), that game would be on it. Ultima 4 NES is good (albeit very different from the PC version) and Ultima 5 PC is good, but stay away from Ultima 5 NES.)

I've played the NES version of Bard's Tale. I even OWN a copy for NES. It is fun. Was just wondering if it is similar at all, but guessing not. Bummer

It is similar; you are still exploring Skara Brae, creating a custom party, going through dungeons, fighting turn-based battles, earning experience points and leveling up, and eventually fighting Mangar. It's just that the game mechanics are quite different (spellcasters can change classes to learn all the spells, for example), and the dungeon design is a lot more complex (and sometimes downright cruel). If you enjoyed the NES version of Bard's Tale, I would suggest giving this version a try; I think you would enjoy it.

Okay. Thanks for the info. I'll buy it at some point and give it a try